Tromsø is a quaint city in Northern Norway known as the Gateway to the Arctic. This pinnacle of natural beauty sees more of the Northern Lights than any other location in the world and experiences two full months of Midnight Sun.

While exploring Tromsø, you will see how Norwegian city life intersects with incredible feats of nature. Book a Tromsø Fjords tour to go whale watching, visit adorable villages and marvel at breathtaking landscapes with a knowledgeable guide.

Here's all you need to know about visiting the Tromsø Fjords, one of the most magnificent destinations for day trips from Tromsø.

Where are the Tromsø Fjords located?

Tromsø is located on two islands in Northeastern Norway, Tromsøy and Kvaløy, that are situated west of the mainland. The urban area is north of the arctic circle and positioned in between the Norwegian and Barents Seas.

The Tromsø Fjords are the lakes and islands in between the Tromsø snowy mountains, and usually remain unfrozen all year round, making them perfect to explore. Balsfjord and Malangen are the most famous fjords just south of Tromsø city.

What are the best Tromsø Fjords tours?

Guided tour to Tromsø Fjords

Embark on a tour of the Tromsø Fjords with an expert guide to see delightful villages, remarkable scenery and abundant wildlife. On this excursion, you’ll ride across Tromsø in a comfortable vehicle to see the most important landmarks of the fjords. Most guided trips last a full day and include a traditional Norwegian meal.

Wildlife cruise to Tromsø Fjords

For those with an interest in the flourishing wildlife of the Northern city, opt for a boat tour through the fjords with a local guide. On this tour, board a traditional mahogany boat to set sail on the Arctic Sea.

You’ll learn about the rich history, ecology and geography of the area with the help of a wildlife expert. While on board keep your eyes peeled for puffin birds, seals, otters, sea eagles, whales and dolphins.

Overnight lavvo tour to Tromsø Fjords

This special excursion allows visitors to camp outdoors under the stunning Northern Lights. Tour the fjords from November to January with an expert guide where you’ll search for orcas and humpback whales that pass through for the season.

Enjoy a warm Norwegian meal and photograph the incredible aurora borealis before heading to your private glass-ceiling crystal lavvo for the evening.

Whale-watching tour to Tromsø Fjords

One of the most exciting activities in Tromsø is a whale-watching cruise through the fjords. Board a charter where you’ll head to a prime whale feeding site. The icy cliffs create an astonishing backdrop for the rich natural wildlife of the Norwegian region.

Marvel at the world’s largest mammals as they thrive in their preferred natural habitat. Most tours offer the chance to see the humpback whale, orcas, harbor porpoises and fin whales depending on the season as well as fascinating animals like otters, seals, puffins, dolphins and seabirds.

Fishing tour to Tromsø Fjords

Tromsø is a fisherman’s heaven with stunning natural landscapes and arctic wildlife at every turn. Head on a fishing tour of the fjords to experience life as a local angler while guided by a knowledgeable captain.

Learn about the historic sunken ship Tirpitz and relax on the catamaran while tossing your rod in the freezing water. Most fishing trips include traditional Norwegian snacks such as dried reindeer meat and brown cheese.

Reindeer ride tours on the Tromsø Fjords

Reindeer sledding is a thrilling way to tour the winter landscape of Tromsø during your visit. Ride through snowy hills while learning about the indigenous Sámi people of the area. Some excursions offer a traditional Sámi meal and a meet-and-greet with the reindeer.

Speedboat tour to Tromsø Fjords

For those looking to live life on the wild side, choose a speedboat tour through the Tromsø Fjords. Wrap up in extra-warm thermal suits and boots for protection before joining your tour guide on a vessel that reaches speeds of up to 45 knots.

Whip through the icy waters while viewing fascinating landscapes and dramatic cliff drops. You’ll learn all about the history of the fjords before heading back for a hot beverage.

Northern Lights tours on the Tromsø Fjords

Tromsø is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. The Norwegian town is only 350 kilometers from the Arctic Circle making it easy to catch the aurora borealis between September and April.

Tromsø hosts an international music and dance festival to celebrate the Northern Lights at the end of January each year.

Private tour to Tromsø Fjords

Enjoy a personalized trip to Tromsø Fjords on a private tour for you and your group. Experience the ease of a hotel pickup by a luxury vehicle before visiting the snowy beaches and charming communities in the area.

Stop for lunch, before you continue on to discover the lush flora and fauna of the region. Learn about the unique traditions of the Tromsø people while snapping photos of the dazzling landscapes.

What are the prices of Tromsø Fjord tours?

Guided tours of the Tromsø Fjords typically begin at €100 per person and increase depending on the activities included.

For a journey through the fjords by vehicle with a professional guide expect to pay between €110 and €130 per person.

For a trip that includes a cruise to see the thriving wildlife of the region such as whale watching and fishing charters, prepare to pay between €130 and €150 per person.

An overnight excursion to see the Northern Lights that includes accommodations in a glass-ceiling lavvo will cost about €500 per person with all meals included.

A speedboat tour through the fjords is priced at about €100 per person, whereas a private excursion with personalized service will cost about €600 for a group of up to eight people. Some private day trips offer rides in luxury vehicles like Mercedes Benz sprinter vans or Teslas, so are priced a bit higher.

Where do Tromsø Fjords tours start?

Many tours from Tromsø offer hotel pickup and drop-off while others select a centralized meeting point in the city, such as the Scandic Ishavshotel. Whale watching, speedboat and fishing tours regularly commence at the Tromsø port.

When is the best time to visit the Tromsø Fjords?

Tromsø is best visited all year round, though summer is the most popular, as the Midnight Sun emerges from June to July.

For those who want to see the famous Northern Lights, plan a trip between September and March for a chance at spotting the natural phenomena.

Whale watching is best done in the fall, as the winter brings 24 hours of full darkness. Although spring is still chilly, there is a greater opportunity to explore outdoor activities with the return of the sun.

Travel tips

The weather in Tromsø is typically very cold, with temperatures dropping to -25 degrees Celsius. Make sure to pack heavy jackets, boots and warm clothing for outdoor exploration.
Most whale watching and speedboat trips have specific weight and height requirements so make sure to clarify before you book.
Not all tours offer meals or snacks for refreshment so plan accordingly.

Tromso Fjords: Day Trips and Tours from Tromsø